How to spot false information, avoid spread

Dubai: In times of crisis, finding reliable information can be challenging. The internet, particularly social media, can become a platform where users are exposed to an overwhelming amount of content.

According to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the online world is “cluttered with inaccurate information”.

“This is especially true during active conflicts, when the line between fact and fiction blurs, making it increasingly difficult to distinguish what’s true and what’s not,” said UNHCR.

Social media algorithms can also accelerate the spread of misleading content because they prioritise posts that generate strong engagement.

“Before you rely on anything you see online, stop for a second and think! Could this information include unverified facts? Or could it all be fake because someone has a deliberate interest in deceiving you?”

The UNHCR has identified different forms of false information and it is important to recognise and understand what sets it apart in order to avoid it.

One is misinformation, which refers to inaccurate or misleading information that is shared without the intention of deceiving others. This type of content often originates from misunderstandings, outdated information, or simple mistakes.

“Individuals eager to share updates might circulate unverified facts through social media, leading to a ripple effect where the misinformation reaches far and wide, sometimes even being picked up by mainstream media,” stated UNHCR.

Although misinformation is not always shared maliciously, it can still cause confusion, create unnecessary panic, or raise false hopes among the public.

On the other hand, disinformation is intentionally created to mislead. It involves fabricating stories, manipulating images or videos, or presenting information out of context to influence public opinion or discredit opposition.

“It is crafted to be believable and to tap into emotional responses. It can polarise communities, incite violence, or lead to misinformed decisions that might jeopardise your safety,” warned the agency.

Fake news is a specific type of disinformation in which entirely fabricated stories are presented as legitimate journalism.

These articles often imitate the appearance and tone of credible news stories but contain invented claims or heavily distorted versions of real events.

Because they resemble authentic reporting, fake news articles can easily mislead readers and spread widely before they are debunked.

The growing use of artificial intelligence (AI) has added another layer to the challenge of identifying false information.

Modern AI tools can create highly realistic images, videos, and audio recordings, commonly referred to as “deepfakes.” These pieces of content can portray events or statements that never actually happened.

AI systems can also generate convincing articles that appear similar to real news reports. In addition, automated bots can repeatedly share the same misleading stories across social media platforms, creating the impression that a large number of people believe the claims.

It is important for readers to be cautious when encountering content that appears unusually dramatic or difficult to verify.

The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has recommended several ways to identify false information and prevent it from spreading.

One of which is to gather multiple credible news sources. When several reputable outlets report the same development, it becomes easier to confirm the accuracy of the information.

“A quick Google search can help you determine if other reliable sources are discussing the topic. If they aren’t, the chances that it’s fake news go way up,” shared UNICEF.

Moreover, it is crucial to check the validity of the original source. Tracing information back to where it first appeared can reveal whether it comes from a reputable authority or an unreliable account.

UNICEF has also advised readers to check on experts with relevant qualifications and experience in their fields. Verified specialists are more likely to provide accurate and evidence-based information. 

Additionally, addressing rumours with clear facts can help limit their impact. Rather than simply labelling information as false, explaining why a claim is incorrect can be more effective in preventing it from spreading further.

“A big part of why we might fall for false information is that we often see it through the lens of our emotions instead of logic,” explained the organisation.

Recognising the need for quick access to verified information, Dubai residents have introduced "Ahlan Dubai," an AI-powered information assistant.

According to Muneer Al Wafaa, an Indian expatriate and entrepreneur, misinformation can spread quickly especially during crises. The goal of the initiative is to make it easier for residents to find reliable updates from official UAE authorities and trusted sources.

"Accessible via ahlandubai.com and through ChatGPT's Explore GPTs section, the Ahlan Dubai AI assistant is designed to retrieve information from more than 200 official UAE government websites and trusted news organisations, helping users quickly access accurate updates related to travel, public advisories, and government services," said Al Wafaa.

In today’s digital world, where information travels instantly, the responsibility to verify facts has become an essential skill.

During times of global tensions, such as the ongoing conflict between US, Israel, and Iran, misleading narratives can spread quickly and shape public perception online. By relying on trusted sources and questioning suspicious content, readers can help ensure that accurate information prevails.